Inn By The Harbor

Inn by the Harbor is a simple but cute property with lots of charm.

As Santa Barbara is such a desirable destination, hotels can be pricey, but Inn by the Harbor offers excellent value for money and is one of our most popular hotels in Central California.

The hotel has exterior corridors (like a motel) but the interior courtyard at heart of the hotel is filled with beautiful tropical plants and an inviting swimming pool. There's lots of traditional Spanish style touches as well which give it a nice atmosphere. The rooms are comfy and traditionally styled.

The free continental breakfast is a light, self-service offering that's set up in the hotel lobby which you can eat there, or in the patio out front. In the evening they set out carafes of wine along with cheese and nibbles for you to help yourself too.

Although there's nothing in the immediate vicinity of the hotel, it's just a 10 minute walk to the beach and harbour, 15 minutes to Stearns Wharf (the pier) and a 20 minute walk to the very heart of State Street.

I really enjoyed my stay here. It's a solid 3★ with lots of character. And free wine.

Top tip: If you’re arriving into Santa Barbara by train then this hotel is only a 10 minute walk from the Amtrak station. And for those on a fly drive, the hotel has free parking.